Futureworks: also setting trends in management

The first surprise is that Futureworks' leadership trio does not have strictly defined areas of responsibility. Could this be because most of the management team are women? Christina Lipp, Charlotta Falk and Karla Bavoljak share their management responsibilities in the creative consultancy with the founder and Executive Director, Walter Stulzer. "But he doesn’t take an authoritarian role either, preferring to see himself primarily as a sparring partner and a first among equals," his management team explains.

Important decisions in areas such as recruiting, continuing development, resource planning or the choice of an occupational pension plan from Vita are made jointly by the management team. The only clear division is in the work with clients, to ensure that each one has a fixed contact and person they can trust. "I would describe our way of working as collaborative, constructive and collective," says Christina Lipp, adding that this mindset also applies when working with clients: "Empathy and an interdisciplinary approach are not just empty words for us; rather, they shape our corporate culture." It is no coincidence that Futureworks comprises a lively mixture of people with individual specialties and skills: "In the end, it's the interplay of all the elements that make us what we are."

Karla Bavoljak adds: "Of course, we sometimes have differing opinions, but when we've taken a decision together, we unite behind it. Our open communication culture allows us to use our diversity as a strength, at all levels." Hence diversity occurs quite naturally and is not the product of quotas or programs. "For us, it is always and only expertise and professionalism that count. Consequently, we don't search according to gender, but rather look for the right personalities for us and our clients."

Futureworks has benefited greatly from its special way of working together during the coronavirus crisis: The majority of employees switched to working from home – and they did this seamlessly. "We promise to always be there with advice and solutions for our clients," explains Christina Lipp, "and this is especially true in crisis situations. My impression is that we're fulfilling this high standard thanks to our great transparency, self-reflection and seniority." Karla Bavoljak observed that, although employees were physically separated, they became closer in relation to themes, content and emotions: "An extremely friendly, benevolent atmosphere prevails with a strong focus on work."

Thanks to modern IT, Futureworks has been able to push ahead with its projects unhindered and the intensity of its electronic communication has increased exponentially. "Technology has provided us with valuable tools, but ultimately it's the culture that determines whether we can continue working together in such crazy times," adds Charlotta Falk. "In times of significant change, the trust and the accountability of all employees are prerequisites for success."